Scotland's hopes for Rugby League World Cup 2013 have received a boost with reports from Australia claiming that Newcastle Knights' State of Origin star James McManus is keen to play for the Bravehearts this Autumn.

McManus was born in Aberdeenshire but emigrated down under at an early age and, having made his NRL debut in 2007, has made more than 100 appearances for the Knights across the threequarter line.

"I’d love to play for Scotland in the World Cup, I’ve been in touch with them," McManus told Australian Rugby League reporter Steve Mascord.

"It would be a great experience going over. I’ve got loads of family over there I’d love to catch up with."

Scotland face Tonga at Derwent Park, Workington, on October 29, Italy at the same venue on November 3 and USA at the Salford City Stadium on November 7.

And McManus hopes to play his part in Scots' quest to qualify past the group stages, having been forced to miss the tournament in Australia five years ago.

"It’s been a while since I’ve been over there but it’s still home, it’s still where I’m from. The last World Cup, I needed groin surgery. I was locked into the surgery and my season was over, so I'd love to be a part of this year's tournament."

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